HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology said today it is launching a clinical program for adults interested in gaining insights into their health and their responses to specific medications base on their genomic profile.
Insight Genome uses whole-genome sequencing to tell patients about their risks for developing specific medical conditions, or passing them onto their children, as well as their pharmacogenomics, with the goal of informing future healthcare decisions, the Institute said.
Insight Genome will be housed at HudsonAlpha’s campus, within the Smith Family Clinic for Genomic Medicine. Would-be participants are required to have a physician referral to Smith Family Clinic, and be 19 years of age or older.
The clinical program includes an initial consultation and drawing of blood and saliva samples for testing. Insight Genome’s laboratory test looks at more than 1,600 genes associated with more than 1,200 medical conditions, including cancer and rare diseases.
Based on the test, Insight Genome offers patients a clinical report that becomes part of a patient’s medical record, as well as a pharmacogenomic report from Kailos Genetics; both must be ordered by a physician. Turnaround time is 90 days.
The clinical report will include information about genetic variants known to be linked to specific medical conditions. The report will be sent to the Smith Family Clinic, where a physician and genetic counselor will share results with patients.
The pharmacogenomic report contains information about 38 different genes, as well as medications impacted by those genetic changes. The report is sent to physicians for sharing with their patients. The cost of the Insight Genome is approximately $7,000, and includes the clinical whole genome and pharmacogenomics tests, as well as physician and genetic counselor visits and consultations at the Smith Family Clinic. The cost is not covered by insurance.
Patients also have the opportunity to participate in a research study program at HudsonAlpha and receive additional information about their genome and common disease, as well as traits of interest, the Institute said.
“One question that I am continually asked is when can I sequence my genome? We are now able to explore how whole genome sequencing can become transformative for clinical care, and also engage both physicians and patients,” Neil Lamb, Ph.D., HudsonAlpha vice president for educational outreach, said in a statement.
